Optimum seed storage environment for afrocarpus gracilior (Pilger) C.N. Page
2000
Girma Balcha (EARO, Addis Abeba (Ethiopia)) | Byth, B. | Grace, J.
The conditions which prolong seed viability of Afrocarpus gracilior were studied. Four moisture contents (6, 8,10 and 17%) and 4 temperatures (-5, 4, 10 and 21 degree centegrade) ranges were used to assess the impact of moisture content and temperature on the storage behavior of A. gracilior. The seeds were desiccated to 6% moisture content without any significant loss in viability. The storage moisture content in the range of 8-17% but close to 8% appears to be optimal. The seeds which were dried to 6% moisture content, followed by storage at -5 degree centegrade showed a significant decline it viability on subsequent storage. The seeds stored at 10 degree centegrade had higher longevity than those stored at 21 degree centegrade. The fact that the majority of seeds survived desiccation below 21% moisture content indicated that the seeds of A. gracilior were not recalcitrant. However, sub-zero temperature (eg -5 degree centegrade) affected even those seeds which were dried to the moisture content of 6%. This also shows that they were not orthodox seeds either. The A. gracilior seeds, therefore, demostrated an intermediate storage behavior.
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